4/17/2025

LANSING, Mich. (AP) — A former Michigan public health official is launching a bid to represent the state in the U.S. Senate as the 2026 race for control of the chamber takes shape. Abdul El-Sayed ran for Michigan governor in 2018 as a progressive Democrat and lost the primary to current Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. He's the second candidate to launch his campaign this week along with Republican Mike Rogers. El-Sayed will face state Sen. Mallory McMorrow in the Democratic primary. Others are also weighing bids. Michigan is poised to be one of the most watched states in 2026 midterm elections with open races for the governor's office and a U.S. Senate seat.